Preserving the Magic of Fairy Tales for Our Children

As a parent or a teacher, it's our job to make sure that our children's imaginations thrive and that they don't lose sight of the magical world around them. One of the most precious gifts we can give them is the belief in the realm of magic, particularly in the form of fairies. However, children today often give up this belief way too early in life, which stops them from seeing the magic in everyday events.

My latest work, a collection of fairy tales, has been well-received. The first book, titled 'Matilda Blows into Town,' was published a year ago and has already garnered a following. These stories aim to bring back the magic and wonder that we once believed in.

Why Children Stop Believing in Magic

It's a common practice to teach children not to believe in certain things. Many children are born with the innate ability to perceive things that others can't. Some can see auras, feel energy, or even remember past lives. However, these abilities are often dismissed or deemed impossible by those around them. The same might be true for our belief in fairies.

For instance, my daughter enjoys the excitement of losing her teeth because of the tooth fairy. She talks about the fairy visiting with great happiness. However, on a recent shopping trip, she insisted on getting coins for when we might need them, saying, "because it is good to have coins ready in case we need them." This was a response I had never heard before. It highlights the moment when she is transitioning from believing in the magic of the fairies to seeing the practical side of the world.

The Importance of Belief in Magic

Most children, especially those who have never really believed in fairies, will pretend to believe in them. This is a protective mechanism, a way to hold on to their childhood and its magic. When children stop wanting to have fun, they lose their connection to this world of magic. As adults, it's important that we don't act as barriers to this joy.

Creating Realistic Beliefs vs. Unrealistic Ones

There is a fine line between creating a belief in magic and superstition. We often introduce children to concepts like the tooth fairy, Santa Claus, and the Easter Bunny as harmless little stories that bring them joy and wonder. However, these stories can later seem like vague, unbelievable fictions. As they grow older, children may start to question these stories, as they have been told to "believe" in them from a young age.

Instead of feeding their imagination with fictional characters, we should focus on teaching them about the magic that can be found in reality. Show them that there are many beautiful and magical things in the world around them. By fostering a sense of wonder, we can help our children hold on to that sense of magic and possibility.

Conclusion

Preserving the magic of fairy tales and the realm of magic can bring immense joy to our children. It's our responsibility to nurture their belief in the magical world until they're ready to let go. Remember, it's not the child's fault that we create fear and disbelief, but we, as adults, should strive to create an environment where belief in magic is encouraged and cherished. Let's make sure our children never lose their sense of wonder and belief in the magic that surrounds us.